Moraine, McConnells Mill slate programs for August 2024
Summer activities continue at Moraine and McConnells Mill State Parks.
Aug. 2: McConnells Mill is hosting a “Waterfall to Waterfall Hike” from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., a challenging 4.5-mile hike along the Kildoo and Breakneck Falls Trails where hikers will visit several waterfalls at the park. Be sure to bring sturdy hiking boots and dress for the weather.
Aug. 3-4: In addition to the regularly scheduled Preston’s Pearl cruises offered every Wednesday and Saturday at Moraine, there will be special cruises offered Aug. 3 and 4 to coincide with the weekend of the regatta. The Preston’s Pearl cruising season concludes at the end of October.
Aug. 8 — Moraine is offering a night of old-fashioned camping under the stars at the Eisler’s Grove Picnic Area on the South Shore from 9:30 to 11 p.m. For the Stars, Stories, and S’mores event, the park naturalist will tell stories about the stars and constellations above us the way our ancestors told them, all while s’mores are provided over a campfire.
Aug. 9 — The Moraine naturalist will lead hikers down the relatively easy Butterfly Trail from 10 to 11:30 a.m., starting from Pavilion 7 of the McDanel’s Boat Launch. Hikers will learn about the summer wildflowers at the park.
Aug. 10 — Moraine will host a “living history” demonstration at the restored Muddy Creek Oil Well from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., giving visitors a chance to see an antique Bessemer engine pumping oil.
Aug. 10 — Reptile fans can join the park naturalist to explore Hell Run Creek for salamanders during the Salamander Safari from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at McConnells Mill. Meet at the Hell’s Hollow trail parking lot.
Aug. 14 — Artists can take part in Watercolor Wednesday at the McDanel’s Boat Launch area at Moraine’s North Shore from 10 a.m. to noon. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required.
Aug. 19 — Moraine is offering a full moon paddle on Lake Arthur from 8 to 10:30 p.m., starting from the old boat launch by the Region 2 office off Route 422. A limited number of kayaks are available, but participants can bring their own. Life jackets are required. This event is open to ages 12 and older; those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.